CONOR HOWELL SHOCKS INVERNESS WITH HUMAN TRAFFICKING CLAIMS AND ASSAULTS

In a startling incident that unfolded at a pub in Inverness, staff members were left stunned and alarmed when a visibly intoxicated patron, identified as Conor Howell, made shocking and unfounded claims about his criminal past. Howell, aged 31 and originally from Merseyside, was accompanied by three friends when the events took place on June 19 of the previous year. According to court testimonies, Howell dramatically jumped onto the bar counter, causing a scene that drew immediate attention from both patrons and staff.

During this disruptive outburst, Howell declared that he had been involved in human trafficking activities and had committed rapes in Spain. He further claimed to have served time in a Spanish jail, alleging involvement in serious criminal conduct. His behavior grew increasingly erratic as he performed grinding motions while lying across the bar, making it clear that he was intoxicated and possibly seeking to provoke a response. Staff members, concerned about the potential for the situation to escalate into violence or disorder, promptly contacted the police to prevent any further disturbance.

Adding to the chaos, Howell’s accomplice, Sean Gates, aged 26 from Wallasey, directed a derogatory insult at a staff member, using a disrespectful term. As the group attempted to leave the premises, they made offensive remarks about a female staff member’s breasts, further demonstrating their disrespectful attitude. In their attempt to exit with a bottle of vodka, Howell and Gates continued their disruptive behavior, showing blatant disregard for the staff and the rules of the establishment.

Police officers responded swiftly to the scene, tracing Howell and Gates to Huntly Street. Upon attempting to arrest Howell, he resisted arrest by waving his arms, pushing officers, and trying to kick them. Despite their efforts, Howell was eventually subdued on the ground by the officers. During the subsequent legal proceedings, Howell pleaded guilty to charges of resisting or obstructing police and behaving threateningly or abusively. Gates, on the other hand, admitted to engaging in threatening or abusive behavior.

In court, Howell’s sentencing was deferred until March 20 to allow for a background report to be prepared. The sheriff warned Howell that he could face imprisonment depending on the findings of this report. Gates was sentenced to a fine of £840 for his conduct during the incident. The case highlights the serious consequences of disruptive behavior and false criminal claims, especially when combined with resistance to law enforcement in public settings.